Disclaimer
According to reports on social media, the number of patients in hospitals is very high, but official sources have not yet declared an emergency. The World Health Organization has also not issued any formal advice about this situation.
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) virus is a respiratory virus that primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tract. First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, hMPV has since been recognized as a globally important pathogen, with particular morbidity in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Has it really spread in China?
Yes, recent reports suggest that respiratory illnesses are on the rise in China, including human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection, with a disproportionate incidence in children under 14 years of age, particularly in northern provinces. In response, China’s National Administration of Disease Control and Prevention has launched a pilot surveillance system for pneumonia of unknown origin to better manage such outbreaks. According to reports on social media, the number of patients in hospitals is very high, but official sources have not yet declared an emergency. The World Health Organization has also not issued any formal advice about this situation.
What are the Symptoms?
The clinical presentation of HMPV virus infection varies, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory illness. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing In severe cases, especially in vulnerable populations, it can lead to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of hMPV virus is usually done by the following methods:
- Molecular testing: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are the most sensitive and specific. Like those used for Covid.
- Antigen detection:
- Serological testing:
Treatment
- Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for hMPV. Early research is aimed at developing vaccines and antiviral treatments to combat HMPV.
- Hydration
- Antipyretics for fever
- Oxygen therapy in severe cases In high-risk patients, prophylactic measures such as maintaining good hygiene and minimising contact with infected individuals are important.
Prevention
Preventive measures to limit hMPV transmission are the same as during Covid:
- Frequent hand washing
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
- Wearing a mask when in a healthcare or crowded place
- Avoiding close contact with sick persons
Is hmpv spread in india?
India’s top health official said on Friday that no case of HMPV (human metapneumovirus) has been reported in the country yet. He said that every year there is a rise in various respiratory viral infections during winter, and hospitals are adequately prepared to deal with these cases. He said, “I would like to urge people to take the usual precautions… If someone has cough and cold, they should avoid coming in contact with people… take the usual medicines prescribed for cold and fever. There is nothing to worry about the current situation.” There are reports in the media that this virus has caused mourning in China, however, these claims have not been supported by any official statement from either the Chinese Health Department or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Pandemic state of covid 19
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, rapidly spreading around the world and becoming a global pandemic. The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and close contact, causing symptoms ranging from mild fever and cough to severe respiratory distress. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions, face a greater risk. Vaccines developed at unprecedented speed have been crucial in reducing severe cases and deaths. Public health measures such as wearing masks, social distancing and frequent handwashing were widely adopted. All of this is now being seen as the hmpv virus pandemic reshaped global healthcare, economies and daily life, emphasizing the importance of preparedness.